Police have released images of two men who they say may be able to help with inquiries into a carjacking in a suburban shopping centre on Monday afternoon.
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Monash University graduate and part-time tutor, Ben van Mierlo, 21, had driven to the Southland shopping centre in Cheltenham to pick up his husband, Jay, from work.
He had just parked his Toyota Yaris when a man, who had his face covered, opened the door and pulled Mr van Mierlo out of the car.
Two other men, who were in a silver Toyota Hilux ute parked behind, also got in to the Yaris, before the trio drove off.
Police allege the men stole a set of number plates, registration number 1CE 6TU, nearby and continued driving.
It is alleged the silver ute was stolen from Dingley Village early on Monday morning.
Investigators say the ute was driven to a petrol station on Dandenong-Hastings Road near Bayliss Road in Lyndhurst about 8am where it was filled up with petrol before being driven away without paying.
Victoria Police spokesman Luke Zammit said the Yaris was found about 10.20 pm on Tuesday, completely burnt out in Beaconsfield Upper on Red Hill Road, near the entrance gate to Cardinia Reservoir.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
